Ronnie O'Sullivan reunited with father jailed for murder after 17 years

The father of snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan was today reunited with his family 17 years after being jailed for murder, it was reported.

The father of snooker star Ronnie O'Sullivan was today reunited with his family 17 years after being jailed for murder, it was reported.

Ronnie O'Sullivan Snr was allowed back to his £1 million home in Essex to see his son, wife Maria and grandchildren after being temporarily released on a rehabilitation scheme, according to the Evening Standard.

The reports suggest he will return to prison at the weekend before his full release later this year or early next.

O'Sullivan senior was jailed for life in 1992 for the murder of father of two Bruce Bryan.

His wife said, in a statement issued through World Snooker, the sport's governing body: "We prefer to have our privacy at this time. We just want to be left alone."

O'Sullivan junior, the three-times world champion known to fans as the Rocket, has frequently spoken of his affection for his father.

Asked in 2003 whether his father would have accompanied him to tournaments had he not been jailed, O'Sullivan replied: "Definitely, because we are best mates. A lot of the reasons I continue playing are really about him. It's difficult to turn away because snooker is something that keeps him going."

He was speaking at the launch of a new helpline for prisoners' families.

The Ministry of Justice, when asked about O'Sullivan senior, said it would not comment on individual prisoners but released a statement which said: "Prisoners nearing the end of their sentence may be released on temporary license providing they meet strict criteria and pass a rigorous risk assessment.

"Release on temporary licence is used to prepare prisoners for their eventual release from custody. It helps to reduce the chance of re-offending by setting up appropriate employment and rehabilitation work in the community, and maintaining family contact.

"This is essential for successful resettlement and an important factor in protecting the public."